What’s the ‘Spyderco Endura’ of flashlights?

[DangerZone98]

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I've carried a Fenix e12 since about 2019ish. If the newer iteration holds up as well as this one has it's a solid option.

This particular one has survived constant carry, being dropped, dunked, and a few trips through the washing machine.

3 settings, and I run mine on rechargeable AAs. The new ones I believe come equipped with a clip, although this one didn't.

Had one of those as a teenager! Or it was the E11 I think.

Sadly lost it sometime. Should’ve flexed more on the other kids with my pocket flashbang.

 

[DangerZone98]

I consider the Fenix brand lights to be in that category.
My favorite AA light is the EAGTAC 25 series. This is the TI version. Slightly warm tint.
The Fenix LD30 is my favorite light at the moment for size and power specs, but it’s not AA. 4.25”

That LD30 looks like a nice size, though the PD36 is my main light for now. Great choices.

 

[Hammer67]

Peak LED Solutions
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Just checked those out for the first time. Lots to like about them. How's the heat buildup?

 

[91bravo]

Just checked those out for the first time. Lots to like about them. How's the heat buildup?

Heat is normal for a AAA light, but it doesn’t ever get “hot”. It’s a no frills, bomb proof light, which is much of the appeal to me, especially for keychain carry.

 

[Hammer67]

Heat is normal for a AAA light, but it doesn’t ever get “hot”. It’s a no frills, bomb proof light, which is much of the appeal to me, especially for keychain carry.

Thanks. Hard to find a truly MUSA light at those prices. I think I'll have to pick one up.

 

[91bravo]

Thanks. Hard to find a truly MUSA light at those prices. I think I'll have to pick one up.

The stainless steel is going to be the most durable, but the brass is really nice too. It’s a back up light for me, so longer runtime took priority over lumen output.

 

[Velitrius]

I got each of my boys a Streamlight Wedge.

They're both diesel mechanics, and they are incredibly hard on their stuff. The Wedge has no difficulty with their lifestyles.

Very easy to carry in pocket, as it's real slim. Shaped like a OTF knife, carries like that. Deep carry pocket clip is reversible, and it comes with a lanyard.

Turn it on and it's 300 lumens, but push the switch forward all the way for a 1000 lumen burst mode. Pretty cool.

They make a Streamlight Wedge XT now with tail switch and other modes, but I haven't played with one yet.

 

[A.L.]

Endura of flashlights? MagLite.

Seriously though I second the Fenix. Always been happy with them.

 

[Venice]

Another vote for Peak. Only problem is too many options.

Current EDCs

 

[Kettleman]

I carry and use Peak and Malkoff daily on and off the job. You need nothing else.

 

[Gizler00]

If you want an ultra reliable and rugged light that’s made in the USA….. you need to look at the Malkoff devices lights. I feel like the MDA 1AA would work great for you. I love mine. 3 output modes. Has moonlight mode and a surprisingly bright high.

However….. they have a ton of other options that utilize rechargeable sim other sizes that have crazy outputs.

And these lights won’t break the bank by any means

Another option is the anything from Peak Led solutions. Robyn is a great lady and their lights will also last a lifetime and not break the bank. Tons of options as wel!

 

[fq55]

Malkoff devices. American made, reasonably priced and tough as nails.

I agree. Many people buy an Endura as their only knife, USA made and reliable. Not the best steel, not fancy but just works.

Get a Malkoff MDC and call it a day. It’ll always just work.

Here is a camo MD2 from 2008 ish.

 

[maxjeg]

I agree. Many people buy an Endura as their only knife, USA made and reliable. Not the best steel, not fancy but just works.

Get a Malkoff MDC and call it a day. It’ll always just work.

Here is a camo MD2 from 2008 ish.

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Spyderco Endura is made in Japan.

 

[Grumpy Old Man]

Nitecore............

 

[Olumin]

The first thing I thought of was a Surefire G2X.

But after reading through this thread, I agree the Streamlight macro/microstream is a great pick. Dont forget the Protac 1l-1aa also.

 

[Tetsujin 140.6]

Another vote for the Fenix LD30 … its in the sweet spot for useability, features and price.